Therapists in Pennington, NJ

Photo of Jessica Levy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Immediate morning and day openings! The relationship between a client and their therapist is one of the most important factors in achieving therapeutic success. I place an emphasis on empathy, compassion, and humor to build our rapport. Before work can begin, a client must be comfortable with and trust their therapist. I pride myself on being able to achieve a strong, trusting, safe connection with my clients.
Immediate morning and day openings! The relationship between a client and their therapist is one of the most important factors in achieving therapeutic success. I place an emphasis on empathy, compassion, and humor to build our rapport. Before work can begin, a client must be comfortable with and trust their therapist. I pride myself on being able to achieve a strong, trusting, safe connection with my clients.
(609) 793-9522 View (609) 793-9522
Photo of Emily Anne Mattek, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
(609) 303-5875 View (609) 303-5875
Photo of Patricia M Hart, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia M Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Looking to find the peacefulness that comes from feeling empowered, to learn and grow through the process of partnering in this journey of psychotherapy? As a licensed clinical social worker for the past 30 years, I have been fortunate to work in so many arenas and with so many amazing people. I am always in awe of the human spirit and the capacity to grow, change and achieve personal goals. Life can be stressful and can sometimes feel overwhelming. It can feel difficult to find a path forward, that is when therapy can help.
Looking to find the peacefulness that comes from feeling empowered, to learn and grow through the process of partnering in this journey of psychotherapy? As a licensed clinical social worker for the past 30 years, I have been fortunate to work in so many arenas and with so many amazing people. I am always in awe of the human spirit and the capacity to grow, change and achieve personal goals. Life can be stressful and can sometimes feel overwhelming. It can feel difficult to find a path forward, that is when therapy can help.
(609) 793-8960 View (609) 793-8960
Photo of Catarina Martins, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Catarina Martins
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Some of the scariest moments in life are when we feel as though we are losing or have lost control, and I hope to assist you in getting through the chaos. By providing a safe, non-judgmental, and encouraging environment, my goal is to support you in creating a life in alignment with your values and who you would like to be.
Some of the scariest moments in life are when we feel as though we are losing or have lost control, and I hope to assist you in getting through the chaos. By providing a safe, non-judgmental, and encouraging environment, my goal is to support you in creating a life in alignment with your values and who you would like to be.
(609) 474-3991 View (609) 474-3991
Photo of Phil Lane, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phil Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am a passionate and devoted advocate for mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I aim to help clients through challenges and always approach therapy and the therapeutic relationship from a position of empathy and understanding. I believe that all clients have a unique life story and that it is within this story that healing begins. Using a client-centered approach, my goal is to be a fellow traveler with you through whatever unique challenges or problems present themselves.
I am a passionate and devoted advocate for mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I aim to help clients through challenges and always approach therapy and the therapeutic relationship from a position of empathy and understanding. I believe that all clients have a unique life story and that it is within this story that healing begins. Using a client-centered approach, my goal is to be a fellow traveler with you through whatever unique challenges or problems present themselves.
(908) 402-1026 View (908) 402-1026
Photo of Nancy Barich, LCSW, MSS, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Barich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, MA
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534  (Online Only)
Nancy Barich, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in the Princeton area. She is a safe, supportive partner with college students, adults, couples, & families. She treats a range of issues that get in the way of truly enjoying life including anxiety, depression, sexual/gender identity, family conflict, grief and loss, & transitions due to major life changes. Nancy has an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, & graduate degrees from Columbia Teachers College and Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work. Nancy also helps lead a global mindfulness-based stress reduction organization.
Nancy Barich, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in the Princeton area. She is a safe, supportive partner with college students, adults, couples, & families. She treats a range of issues that get in the way of truly enjoying life including anxiety, depression, sexual/gender identity, family conflict, grief and loss, & transitions due to major life changes. Nancy has an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, & graduate degrees from Columbia Teachers College and Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work. Nancy also helps lead a global mindfulness-based stress reduction organization.
(908) 639-3354 View (908) 639-3354
Photo of Jennifer Lesage, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Lesage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am accepting new clients and have current availability for after school and evening appointments. One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? Is your teen withdrawing and not engaging in activities that once brought them joy? Is your teen engaging in harmful behaviors?
I am accepting new clients and have current availability for after school and evening appointments. One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? Is your teen withdrawing and not engaging in activities that once brought them joy? Is your teen engaging in harmful behaviors?
(609) 454-6505 View (609) 454-6505
Photo of Ariel Susman, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ariel Susman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
I work collaboratively with individuals to help them succeed beyond their barriers and overcome their mental health challenges. Whether someone is reluctant or ready to start the work, I meet them where they are in their journey.
I work collaboratively with individuals to help them succeed beyond their barriers and overcome their mental health challenges. Whether someone is reluctant or ready to start the work, I meet them where they are in their journey.
(609) 739-8399 View (609) 739-8399
Photo of Marc Celentana, PhD, PCC, Psychologist
Marc Celentana
Psychologist, PhD, PCC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Greetings ! If you would like to learn about my background and services, I encourage you to read on. Possessing over 20 years of clinical experience in the prevention, diagnosing, and treatment of behavioral health conditions for a broad range of presenting issues, I now focus care on two specific client populations: 1. high achieving and motivated late adolescents/young adults (age 16 through 25); and, 2. business professionals.
Greetings ! If you would like to learn about my background and services, I encourage you to read on. Possessing over 20 years of clinical experience in the prevention, diagnosing, and treatment of behavioral health conditions for a broad range of presenting issues, I now focus care on two specific client populations: 1. high achieving and motivated late adolescents/young adults (age 16 through 25); and, 2. business professionals.
(609) 312-5897 View (609) 312-5897
Photo of Ashley M. Kussman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley M. Kussman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
Often individuals who have experienced on-going internal or relational conflict feel stuck in a cycle that they can't seem to control no matter how many attempts or strategies they try. In the confusion and exhaustion, they give up and give in to hopelessness, low self-worth, shame, anger, and fear. This leads into more alienation, suffering, and despair. Those who want to heal the relationship with themselves and with those they love can rediscover the self that is trapped under all of the pain, anger, and fear. With empathic support, knowledge, and adequate resources, healing is possible.
Often individuals who have experienced on-going internal or relational conflict feel stuck in a cycle that they can't seem to control no matter how many attempts or strategies they try. In the confusion and exhaustion, they give up and give in to hopelessness, low self-worth, shame, anger, and fear. This leads into more alienation, suffering, and despair. Those who want to heal the relationship with themselves and with those they love can rediscover the self that is trapped under all of the pain, anger, and fear. With empathic support, knowledge, and adequate resources, healing is possible.
(609) 622-4204 View (609) 622-4204
Photo of Sarah Brangwynne, MA,  LPC, LMHC, BC-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Brangwynne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Welcome! I am so glad you are taking the first steps to feeling better. Whether you are suffering from relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma or just need someone to talk to about your life, I welcome you to reach out to see if my services and treatment are right for you. I offer traditional psychotherapy, expressive therapy, and holistic coaching depending on what is needed. My specialty is women’s reproductive mental health and wellness and I am also completing advanced training in grief, loss, and trauma. I see adults and older teens with a variety of problems and needs.
Welcome! I am so glad you are taking the first steps to feeling better. Whether you are suffering from relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma or just need someone to talk to about your life, I welcome you to reach out to see if my services and treatment are right for you. I offer traditional psychotherapy, expressive therapy, and holistic coaching depending on what is needed. My specialty is women’s reproductive mental health and wellness and I am also completing advanced training in grief, loss, and trauma. I see adults and older teens with a variety of problems and needs.
(609) 928-7638 View (609) 928-7638
Photo of Jamie Norton, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
If you’re feeling lost, confused, or stuck and unsure how to proceed — talking it through in therapy can make all the difference. I have 10+ years of experience supporting individuals and couples break free from unhelpful patterns. I guide clients by fostering space for exploration and curiosity while also integrating actionable practical tools. I specialize in helping people process their trauma, get relief from anxiety and depression, understand and set boundaries, and improve relationship functioning. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, strengths-based, and empathic.
If you’re feeling lost, confused, or stuck and unsure how to proceed — talking it through in therapy can make all the difference. I have 10+ years of experience supporting individuals and couples break free from unhelpful patterns. I guide clients by fostering space for exploration and curiosity while also integrating actionable practical tools. I specialize in helping people process their trauma, get relief from anxiety and depression, understand and set boundaries, and improve relationship functioning. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, strengths-based, and empathic.
(862) 307-9349 View (862) 307-9349
Photo of Joana Couto, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Joana Couto
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Waitlist for new clients
Often times we seek therapy because of struggles in relationships, adjusting to a new phase in life, uncertainty about the future, family stress, anxiety, & depression. You don't need to wait until you are in crisis to get help. Learning the balance between self-care & community care is a practice. Together we can explore different tools that can support you to work through emotions & patterns that may have happened in the past, but are playing a part in your desire to grow now. We don't choose what happens to us, but it is part of our journey to work through them. Our work together is to increase your choices and awareness.
Often times we seek therapy because of struggles in relationships, adjusting to a new phase in life, uncertainty about the future, family stress, anxiety, & depression. You don't need to wait until you are in crisis to get help. Learning the balance between self-care & community care is a practice. Together we can explore different tools that can support you to work through emotions & patterns that may have happened in the past, but are playing a part in your desire to grow now. We don't choose what happens to us, but it is part of our journey to work through them. Our work together is to increase your choices and awareness.
(609) 336-3012 x701 View (609) 336-3012 x701
Photo of Sandy Gibson, PhD, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandy Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Life can be tough sometimes, whether it be a challenging life transition, processing trauma, or contemplating if your current relationship is your best path forward. Working together to develop a plan for your own wellness, without judgment, is the goal. For people who are uncertain about their relationship to alcohol and other drugs, we can explore this together without the expectation for abstinence. I understand people ebb and flow with their use and not everyone needs to give it up to recover from problematic use. Families of people who use drugs often feel scared and powerless, but you are powerful, you can make a difference.
Life can be tough sometimes, whether it be a challenging life transition, processing trauma, or contemplating if your current relationship is your best path forward. Working together to develop a plan for your own wellness, without judgment, is the goal. For people who are uncertain about their relationship to alcohol and other drugs, we can explore this together without the expectation for abstinence. I understand people ebb and flow with their use and not everyone needs to give it up to recover from problematic use. Families of people who use drugs often feel scared and powerless, but you are powerful, you can make a difference.
(609) 336-3012 View (609) 336-3012
Photo of Gretel J. LaVieri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretel J. LaVieri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
I offer a hybrid practice: house calls & telehealth. I started my home visit practice to make therapy accessible to those who can't get to an office, and I remain deeply committed to that value. Chronic or progressive illness, chronic pain, physical disability, and other mobility challenges can make travel to an office out of reach. Certainly telehealth has been a life saver. Yet being able to meet safely in person to address worries & fears, sadness, grief, loneliness, isolation, and loss of meaning in life can be transformative. Are you willing to explore ways to be with life as it is, and act based on what's in your heart?
I offer a hybrid practice: house calls & telehealth. I started my home visit practice to make therapy accessible to those who can't get to an office, and I remain deeply committed to that value. Chronic or progressive illness, chronic pain, physical disability, and other mobility challenges can make travel to an office out of reach. Certainly telehealth has been a life saver. Yet being able to meet safely in person to address worries & fears, sadness, grief, loneliness, isolation, and loss of meaning in life can be transformative. Are you willing to explore ways to be with life as it is, and act based on what's in your heart?
(609) 474-6272 View (609) 474-6272
Photo of Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Welcome! I'm Lindsey, a counselor & art therapist. Life can be difficult sometimes and I'm here to help create realistic and healthy goals, while guiding you through the therapeutic process. I work to empower clients in using resources and tools gained in sessions. I encourage honesty & willingness during sessions and understand it takes time for some to get there. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, burn-out, poor emotional regulation, communication difficulties, perfectionism, ADHD/poor time management, work/school stress, and more. I accept clients virtually or in-person in NJ and virtual clients in FL.
Welcome! I'm Lindsey, a counselor & art therapist. Life can be difficult sometimes and I'm here to help create realistic and healthy goals, while guiding you through the therapeutic process. I work to empower clients in using resources and tools gained in sessions. I encourage honesty & willingness during sessions and understand it takes time for some to get there. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, burn-out, poor emotional regulation, communication difficulties, perfectionism, ADHD/poor time management, work/school stress, and more. I accept clients virtually or in-person in NJ and virtual clients in FL.
(609) 604-5920 View (609) 604-5920
Photo of Arielle Skoryk, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Arielle Skoryk
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
As the parent, you know your child best. Do you believe that your child's behavioral and/or emotional needs are impacting his/her ability to function at home or at school? If so, getting support from a professional can make a huge difference. Each child has strengths & needs, and I use a compassionate strengths-based approach to reach & support all children.
As the parent, you know your child best. Do you believe that your child's behavioral and/or emotional needs are impacting his/her ability to function at home or at school? If so, getting support from a professional can make a huge difference. Each child has strengths & needs, and I use a compassionate strengths-based approach to reach & support all children.
(848) 225-9906 View (848) 225-9906
Photo of Tina Montagna-Tate, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Montagna-Tate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
I'm a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience providing highly individualized, effective treatment for a wide range of emotional, psychological and adjustment related concerns. Being a seasoned clinician, I have a deep knowledge base, with training in many therapeutic theories. This allows me to develop interventions that will best assist you in reaching your goals.
I'm a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience providing highly individualized, effective treatment for a wide range of emotional, psychological and adjustment related concerns. Being a seasoned clinician, I have a deep knowledge base, with training in many therapeutic theories. This allows me to develop interventions that will best assist you in reaching your goals.
(609) 957-6920 View (609) 957-6920
Photo of Alex Epply-Schmidt, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Epply-Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
When working with immediate areas of concern for clients, I use techniques from CBT and ACT to help clients develop problem-solving skills, identify who they want to become and reduce stress and anxiety. If you're experiencing unresolved difficult past experiences, I use Attachment Theory. I have a particular interest in helping adolescents develop insights and skills to create a personally meaningful life. I have experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, academic stress, and relationship difficulties. I currently work as a therapist at both Princeton University and Inner Balance Psychology.
When working with immediate areas of concern for clients, I use techniques from CBT and ACT to help clients develop problem-solving skills, identify who they want to become and reduce stress and anxiety. If you're experiencing unresolved difficult past experiences, I use Attachment Theory. I have a particular interest in helping adolescents develop insights and skills to create a personally meaningful life. I have experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, academic stress, and relationship difficulties. I currently work as a therapist at both Princeton University and Inner Balance Psychology.
(609) 403-3715 View (609) 403-3715
Photo of Mary J Goepfert, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary J Goepfert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
Everyone has times in their life when they struggle with managing their emotions, unhealthy relationships, difficult events from the past, grief and loss, self-defeating behaviors, or health concerns. Maybe you are facing a difficult decision, a turning point in your career, or a life transition. Maybe you feel fractured from painful events or numerous stressors accumulated over time. Therapy can help you feel whole again, and fully integrated in body, mind and spirit.
Everyone has times in their life when they struggle with managing their emotions, unhealthy relationships, difficult events from the past, grief and loss, self-defeating behaviors, or health concerns. Maybe you are facing a difficult decision, a turning point in your career, or a life transition. Maybe you feel fractured from painful events or numerous stressors accumulated over time. Therapy can help you feel whole again, and fully integrated in body, mind and spirit.
(609) 303-5119 View (609) 303-5119
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pennington, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Pennington, NJ who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
67% Stress
62% Grief

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

65% Aetna
49% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
38% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Pennington, NJ see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pennington?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.